“By bringing all the independent schools in Loughborough into one organisation, that relationship can be developed further to broaden our educational and extra-curricular offering for children of all ages.

“The governors of Loughborough Endowed Schools and Our Lady’s Convent, and the heads of all four schools, fully support the decision, which provides a more secure future for Our Lady’s Convent pupils and staff.

“By being part of the foundation, Our Lady’s Convent pupils will immediately benefit from access to a wider range of facilities and resources.”